This interview features Thuy Linh, a dedicated academic who played a pivotal role in organizing DEN’s inaugural international students’ conference in December 2024. Her efforts were instrumental in bringing together students to share their diverse experiences and perspectives. Looking ahead, Linh will be accompanying two students to DEN’s eighth international students’ conference, which will be held in London. This upcoming event promises to foster global collaboration and cultural exchange, and Thuy is eager to support the students in navigating this exciting opportunity.
Please share a bit about yourself, including your background and interests. Have you travelled abroad before? If so, where have you been?
I grew up in Hanoi and later pursued my master’s degree in Human Resource Management in Australia, where I spent two years studying and an additional two years living independently. Traveling has always been a big part of my life, and I’ve been fortunate to visit several countries, including the U.S., Japan, Korea, Australia, Thailand, and Hong Kong. This May, I’m especially excited to visit London for the first time—it’ll be my first time in Europe, and I can’t wait to explore!
- What is your perception of the UK and London?
My perception of the UK, and London in particular, is shaped by my time in Australia, where I noticed British cultural influences and grew to appreciate them. I love the British accent and have always admired the Queen. London, to me, represents a perfect blend of history and modernity—where iconic landmarks and centuries-old traditions coexist with innovation and global influence. I also love the vibe of British people—everyone just seems so chill, relaxed, and friendly. I’m really looking forward to experiencing it firsthand!
- Tell us your main goals for attending this summer school and conference in London. You may want to focus on academic learning, networking with international students, cultural exchange, improving English skills, exploring career opportunities, or experiencing British culture. If you have any other specific goals in mind, feel free to mention them.
As a lecturer attending this summer school and conference in London, my main goal is to engage in meaningful academic exchange. I look forward to sharing my experiences while also learning from fellow educators, researchers, and professionals in an international setting. Networking with academics from diverse backgrounds is a great opportunity to exchange ideas and explore potential collaborations.
Beyond the academic aspect, I’m excited to immerse myself in British culture, experiencing firsthand the history, traditions, and daily life in London. I also see this as a chance to refine my communication skills in an international environment, gaining fresh perspectives that I can bring back to my own university. Overall, I hope this experience will enrich both my professional and personal growth
- What topics or themes interest you most in the conference, and why do they appeal to you?
I’m particularly interested in the themes of sustainability and inclusive education at the conference. As global challenges like climate change, social inequality, and public health disparities grow more pressing, I believe it is crucial to engage students in shaping sustainable solutions.
I look forward to exploring how universities worldwide integrate sustainability into their curricula and empower students to drive change. Additionally, I’m keen to learn about innovative teaching methods and policies that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion while addressing global development challenges.
This conference offers a valuable platform to exchange ideas with academics and students from different backgrounds, gaining fresh insights into sustainability strategies that can be applied in both education and policy-making. I’m eager to contribute to these discussions and bring new perspectives back to my own institution.
- Are you comfortable speaking in front of a group during discussions or presentations? If this is a challenge, how would you work on overcoming it?
A tiny little bit, yes—but only before the presentation. Once I step onto the stage, I forget all about it. Everything just comes to me very naturally. Speaking in front of a group is something I’ve grown comfortable with over time, especially in academic settings where I can share my knowledge and engage in meaningful discussions.
- What is your presentation about, and why is it important to discuss this at the conference?
My presentation is about Corporate Sustainability vs. Greenwashing – Educating Future Leaders to Drive Real Change. As sustainability becomes a global priority, many corporations promote themselves as ‘green,’ but not all sustainability claims are genuine. Some companies engage in greenwashing—using misleading marketing tactics to appear environmentally responsible while continuing unsustainable practices.
This topic is crucial for discussion at the conference because today’s students are tomorrow’s business leaders, policymakers, and consumers. Understanding the difference between real sustainability efforts and PR-driven greenwashing is essential in shaping a more responsible and transparent corporate landscape.
By addressing this issue, I hope to highlight practical ways to measure corporate sustainability, real-world examples of greenwashing, and the role of education in fostering critical thinking among future leaders. Only through awareness and education can we ensure that sustainability is more than just a buzzword—it must be a fundamental principle driving real change.
- What aspects of British culture are you most excited to experience? This could include visiting historical landmarks like Buckingham Palace or the Tower of London, exploring museums and art galleries, trying local cuisine, enjoying theatre and entertainment such as West End shows, or immersing yourself in everyday life and interactions with locals. Let us know if you’re looking forward to anything else.
I’m most excited to experience British museums, culture, and, of course, Wimbledon! As a tennis lover, visiting Wimbledon is a dream come true—even though there won’t be any matches during my visit, I can’t wait to soak in the atmosphere and enjoy the classic strawberries and cream.
I’m also looking forward to visiting Cambridge University, where Stephen Hawking studied. Exploring such a historic institution with its deep academic legacy is something truly special. Beyond that, I’m eager to immerse myself in British culture, from its museums and galleries to everyday life and interactions with locals.
- How do you think this experience will benefit your studies or future career?
Attending this summer school and conference in London will be a valuable experience for both my academic and professional growth. As a lecturer, engaging in discussions on sustainability, inclusive education, and global challenges will provide fresh perspectives that I can integrate into my teaching and research. Learning from experts and networking with international academics will also open up opportunities for collaboration, helping me stay at the forefront of my field.
Beyond the academic aspect, experiencing British culture will enrich my understanding of global education systems and international engagement. This exposure will enhance my ability to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and contribute more effectively to cross-cultural academic programs. Overall, this experience will strengthen both my teaching approach and my professional network, benefiting my career in the long run.
- What are your biggest concerns about studying and attending a conference in London? Typical concerns may include the language barrier, cultural differences, or academic workload. If you have any other worries, please share them with us.
I don’t have major concerns, but if I had to pick one, it would probably be adapting to the academic environment and expectations in a new setting. While I’m confident in my ability to engage in discussions and present my ideas, every academic culture has its own nuances, and I want to ensure that I contribute effectively.
Aside from that, I’m excited rather than worried about cultural differences. I see them as an opportunity for learning and growth. If anything, my only real concern is making the most of my time in London—there’s so much to explore, both academically and culturally, and I want to experience as much as possible!
- Are you familiar with the University of Westminster and the Democratic Education Network (DEN)? If so, what do you know about them? You may want to check their websites for more information:
University of Westminster
Democratic Education Network
Yes, I am familiar with both the University of Westminster and the Democratic Education Network (DEN). The University of Westminster, established in 1838 as the Royal Polytechnic Institution, is a public university in London known for its diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
The Democratic Education Network is a student-led initiative at the university that fosters dialogue and knowledge sharing among students, international universities, and diverse communities in London. It provides a platform for students to enhance their employability skills, academic achievements, and cross-cultural understanding.
I have known Mr. Farhang and the University of Westminster from their field trip to Vietnam, where I was a host representing Hanoi University. It was a fantastic experience, and I can’t believe that now they are holding the conference in London and have invited me to attend! I’m truly excited to reconnect with them and be part of this event in a new setting.
- Finally, is there anything else you’d like to tell us? We look forward to welcoming you and making this experience as enriching and enjoyable as possible.
I just want to say how excited I am for this experience! It’s an incredible opportunity to connect with academics, students, and professionals from around the world while exploring new ideas on sustainability and education.
I truly appreciate the invitation to this conference, especially after previously engaging with the University of Westminster during their visit to Vietnam. I look forward to meaningful discussions, cultural exchanges, and of course, experiencing London for the first time. Thank you for this opportunity—I can’t wait to be part of it!